GEORGE NEWS - Mayor Jackie von Brandis' surprise move to include a member of Good to her mayoral commitee caused quite a stir.
The announcement was made last week Thursday 27 March, during the confidential section of Council: Good's Chantelle Kyd is the new MMC (member of the mayoral committee) of planning and development.
On social media it was evident that many are of the opinion that Kyd, who's been convicted of fraud, should not serve in such an esteemed position.
Kyd is a former financial clerk at Thembalethu and Dellville Park primary schools, and was found guilty on 66 charges of fraud involving R330 000, on 19 January 2018. She was sentenced to three years imprisonment, suspended for 5 years.
Von Brandis said they are aware of Cllr Kyd's prior sentence and acknowledge that she was not incarcerated. "Cllr Kyd has served her sentence as determined by the legal process, and there are no legal barriers prevent her from acting as a councillor or serving as a member of the mayoral committee," said Von Brandis. "We reserve the right to comment on the selection process of any representative by any political party. However, as a coalition partner of the Good party, we respect their internal processes and its outcome."
DA East Regional Chairperson Venolea Fortuin said the DA notes the public comments. "We believe the process of nomination by Good, as our coalition partner, to propose their member to serve on the Mayco of George must be respected."
Good Secretary-General Brett Herron said the fact that Kyd was convicted and served a sentence of community service was never withheld from them. "Rehabilitation is the most important goal of sentencing and we are confident that her process of rehabilitation includes the manner in which she serves as a councillor today - with distinction."
A word from Kyd
Kyd was grateful for the opportunity to provide comment herself. "I have never hidden my past. I was convicted of fraud, served my community service sentence for one and a half years and received a presidential pardon. I believe I have paid my debt to society," she said.
"I don’t believe one’s past should be used against their future or be used to define a person's character. I am grateful that so many people have supported me in this journey and for the confidence in me demonstrated by the leadership of Good."
She said her past has taught her valuable lessons and to speak out against injustices especially against the poor and vulnerable of society.
"I'm humbled and honoured to serve the people of George in this capacity and to make a meaningful contribution and difference in the lives of our people. To serve the people, according to the values of the Good party, with honesty, integrity and in line with our policies including spatial justice."
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